MANILA, Philippines — Elite performance nutritionist coach Jeaneth Aro will head back to the Olympics, this time to guide 59kg qualifier Elreen Ando of Cebu in her quest for a podium finish. Aro was in Hidilyn Diaz’ team when the four-time Olympian brought home the country’s first-ever gold medal in the Tokyo Summer Games.
When Aro left Diaz’ camp last month, she shifted to Ando. “It’s a new mission for me, a new Olympic dream with Elreen but I’ll always cherish working with Hidi,” said Aro who has been involved in over 20 sports in more than 20 years. “Elreen asked for my help and saying no to her would mean also saying no to our country. That’s how I weighed the situation. I had to forego my emotions and do what I was requested to do.” Aro was put on the spot when the battle for the last 59kg ticket came down to Ando or Diaz at the Olympic qualifier in Phuket early this month. Ando wound up outlifting Diaz in total weight, 228kg to 222kg.
Aside from Ando, Aro took care of Rosegie Ramos in Phuket. Ramos, 20, is awaiting confirmation of her Olympic pass. “Si Elreen, sa competition week ko siya tinulungan while Rosegie is a personal client,” said Aro. “Based on Elreen’s feedback, proper weight cutting and recovery were a struggle. One of my roles with Elreen is to be a support coach assisting with her other needs to help maintain focus. Lots of things went on in the actual event and I tried to do my best in whatever way I could para maka-focus ang coach niya in providing technical reminders and executing numbers strategies. Never ako nag-coach. I just provided Elreen words of encouragement, to take it easy and focus on the game. This was after she missed the first attempt sa clean and jerk. I’m very particular in not touching any technical aspect of the game. I respect our coaches so much kaya I stay in my lane.”